What Does the Torch Stand for in the Right Hand of the Statue of Liberty?

Regarded as a universal symbol of liberty and democracy--and one of the most recognizable symbols in America--the Statue of Liberty is a tourist destination for millions. The symbolism of the famous torch she holds, however, is often unknown to the statue's visitors.

History

Dedicated on October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France. The statue became a national monument in 1924 and received a full restoration in 1986.

Design

While construction of the statue was a joint venture between the U.S. and France, the statue itself was designed by French artist Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi. Bartholdi received help from French engineer--and designer of the Eiffel Tower--Alexandre Gustave Eiffel to build the skeleton for the Statue.

Construction

The statue itself is made of 3/32 inch thick copper. The torch is also covered in 24 karat gold to allow it to reflect the sun's rays during the day. The torch is illuminated by 16 floodlights housed in its base at night.

Symbolism

The Statue of Liberty's torch symbolizes enlightenment. The torch is to metaphorically light the way to liberty. Consistent with the symbolism of the torch, the Statue's full and official name is the "Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World."

Restoration

The current torch was added to the Statue in 1986, as part of the Statue's centennial restoration. The original torch was removed in 1984; it now resides in the lobby of the monument.

Black Tom

The torch has been closed to the public since the "Black Tom" explosion of 1916, when German agents destroyed an ammunition depot near the Statue.

References

• NPS.gov